So Devon Kennard is taking snaps at strongside linebacker, but does the rookie linebacker have what it takes to play middle linebacker? -Ted

Dear Ted, I don’t know and I think it doesn’t matter at this point. The Giants have Kennard, a fifth-round draft choice from USC, learning one position, and that is strongside linebacker. Hopefully they won’t need him to play in the middle, at least this season. Jameel McClain is currently playing that spot. When Jon Beason returns from his foot injury – he believes that will be ready for the season-opener in Detroit – McClain might supplant Kennard on the strong side. If so, it’s one reason the Giants will have better depth at linebacker than they’ve had in recent seasons. Is there an issue with Rueben Randle's understanding of his routes? He seems to be the guy "miscommunicating" with Eli each time. -Tom

Dear Tom, First of all, the answer is no. Randle has a firm understanding of his assignments and where he is supposed to be on every play. Unless you have a copy of our playbook, I doubt you share that knowledge. So with all due respect, I don’t know how you can determine that there is a miscommunication or a disconnection on anyone’s part. Eli Manning will be the first to tell you he could have made better throws on some of his incompletions. Everyone knows what they’re supposed to do. Now they have to improve their execution. According to coach Coughlin, every position is up for grabs. If that is the case, then why don’t players like Corey Washington, just to name one, get a chance with the first team? Competition also comes from game situations, not just practice. -John

Dear John, In the Giants' current situation, in which the starters have struggled to produce in the new offense, the coaches want Eli Manning throwing to the receivers he will most likely line up with when the regular season begins. That group includes Victor Cruz, Rueben Randle and Jerrel Jernigan. Their priority is to have that group working smoothly together, rather than give all those competing for jobs an opportunity to take reps with Manning. As you noted, they do get some first-team reps in practice. For now, that will have to suffice as the Giants try to work out the kinks in their attack before Sept. 8.